The Facts: Following up on a previous item. ... A devastating back injury on Dec. 18 casts doubt on Knox's potential availability for 2012. Having undergone a vertebral fusion procedure, Knox will have to wear a back brace until mid-March, and his timeline for recovery could extend beyond six months, according to multiple sources.
Diehards Line:Based on that timeline by ESPN.com's Michael C. Wright, Knox's status for training camp would be in considerable doubt. Although the Bears are confident that Knox will play again, they have to proceed as though he may not be a significant factor early in the season. Knox finished the 2011 season ranked second in the NFL in yards per catch (19.6 yards), led the team in receiving yards (727) and was tied for second in receptions.